Ilorin Durbar: Committee Member Apologises to Tunji Buhari, Clarifies Comments
A member of the Ilorin Durbar Committee, Dr Salihu Hammed Alabi, has issued a public apology and clarification over a voice message that recently stirred controversy online, particularly among members of the Ilorin Emirate community.
The message, which was originally shared in a private WhatsApp group, found its way to Facebook, where it was interpreted as a response to criticisms by the Kwara Central Senator Saliu Mustapha aide, Hon. Tunji Buhari regarding the venue of the upcoming Ilorin Durbar event.
In a statement made available to Daily Hibiscus news on Monday morning, Dr Alabi expressed regret over the misunderstanding the voice note caused, particularly towards the Balogun Gambari family and Hon. Tunji Buhari, whom he described as a brother and friend.
“In actual fact, I did not mean to dismiss any individual or family, particularly the honourable family of Balogun Gambari of Ilorin that has contributed significantly to the growth, development, stability, and peace we enjoy today in the Emirate,” he said.
“I apologise for any misconceptions, misinterpretations, and negative meaning of my views, especially to Hon. Tunji Buhari and his family. I assure you that I did not intend to attack or diminish any individual or family heritage.”
Dr Alabi emphasised the collective love and loyalty shared by members of the community for the Emir of Ilorin, His Royal Highness, and reiterated his commitment to unity within the Emirate.
“We all genuinely love His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, and strive to protect the Shehu Alimi dynasty in various directions. May Ilorin continue to progress from strength to strength,” he added.
The Ilorin Durbar is a colourful cultural event held annually during Eid, celebrating the heritage of the Emirate and its royal traditions.
